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This is the travel blog of backpackers Rochssare Neromand-Soma (28) and Morten Hübbe (30) who met at the same university in Germany, where they both studied Literature and Media. They finished school in 2011 and started travelling immediately.

Their journey started with a trip to South America. They planned it as a six-month visit but ended up falling in love with the warm people and the breathtaking beauty of the region. It all started with hitchhiking (which is really common in Argentina and Chile) and enjoyed it so much that they kept travelling until they had discovered the entire continent.

They ended up staying back for over two years, and had by then, hitchhiked more than 50.000 kilometers, mostly with truck drivers.

On the way, they met a Frenchman who told them about his hitchhiking adventures in Europe. He went from Paris to Istanbul all in just four days. This impressed the couple enough to decide to hitchhike all the way from Germany to India.

Today, they are in Pakistan. And look forward to travel throughout the country before proceeding to their last destination.

Karachi, the mega-metropolis

Coming from Quetta, we arrived in Karachi after a long and dusty train ride. Before we even reached the Cantt station, we had already seen the poverty; people living in tents next to the rails, all but surrounded by garbage, the dust and dirt. At the colonial-era station, goats roamed about outside as we had our breakfast in a fancy bistro café.

Our first impression: Karachi contains all social classes. And nothing seems to be impossible here. The city is a real mega metropolis, and together with the district next to the Arabic Sea, it hosts more inhabitants than the whole of Australia.

Karachi's global image is supposedly not very good – it is regularly mentioned in all rankings of the most dangerous cities in the world. They say there is no other city in the world where more people get murdered. But all this, we got to know when we had already left the city.

The time we spent in Karachi was phenomenal. We met pleasant people and interested observers everywhere we went. We had good fun with friends on the beaches of Hawksbay, watched wonderful decorated camels at Clifton; hung out with musicians, producers, journalists; and every new day, learned a little bit more about Pakistan.

Camels at Clifton beach, Karachi.

A view of the market in Saddar, Karachi.

A corn vendor at the beach.

Here, we were the most comfortable, and time seem to fly by. All of a sudden, 10 days had gone by and we realised it was time to move on.

Although we are on a mission to hitchhike from Germany to India, many people recommended not to do so in Pakistan.

'It is uncommon and might be risky.'

However, our experiences were nothing but good. We never had to wait for more than 15 minutes before some nice folks picked us up.

When we reached Multan, we were not allowed to stay because of 'security issues'. It was not the first time and definitely not the last time that we had some hassle with the authorities here. It is always all about 'our security', but the attitude of some of the policemen and military folk was at times arrogant, even rude.

The twin-cities: Islamabad and Rawalpindi

In the end, we were escorted directly to Islamabad overnight, with the vehicle changed every couple of kilometres. As soon as we entered the capital, we felt like we had left Pakistan altogether.

All of a sudden, the chaotic traffic disappeared, so did the donkey carts creeping forward in tiny lanes. Instead, we found a systematically constructed city; wide roads; western cafés and restaurants – a notable influence of foreign diplomats and expats.

Faisal Mosque, Islamabad.

A view of The Centaurus, Islamabad.

A sugarcane juice vendor in Islamabad.

And next to it, is Rawalpindi, 'the ugly sister' of Islamabad we were told – but, we'd much rather call it, the more charismatic one. The streets are narrow and crowded again; mobile salesmen offer fruits, blossoms, socks or whatever you like; chai wallahs crossing from one side to the other. In Pindi, we felt that Pakistan is a place where anything can happen. There are no restrictions as long as you know how to handle the circumstances.

View of a street in Rawalpindi.

We fell in love with Rawalpindi, but Islamabad was an excellent place to recollect some energy for the upcoming adventures. Again, we met many friends, many different kinds of people. We were invited to visit some universities, spent time with private and government employees and had inspiring chats about culture and life in this great country of contradictions.

Going north — the beauty of the mountains

Again, it took us a while to leave the capital. There were quite a few lazy days in between as we waited for our Indian visa.

As soon as we got our passports back from the consulate, we hitchhiked north towards Gilgit and Hunza. It was an epic voyage along the famous Karakoram Highway (KKH). The twisting road, partly unsteady and in a bad shape, offered some spectacular views overlooking the Indus River and the valleys along the road.

We were lucky enough to find trustworthy drivers who gave us a lift to a rainy Gilgit within three days. In the middle of a lively bazaar, we spent hours chatting and drinking chai together with the merchants.

Gilgit.

A man sitting next to Gilgit River.

Overlooking Gilgit River.

Later, we proceeded to Hunza Valley and Karimabad.

This was truly like entering heaven on earth. Hundreds of blooming apricot and almond trees welcomed us in a valley surrounded by mighty, snow-covered mountains and towering peaks. Hiking in this astonishing landscape was undoubtedly one of our best experiences in Pakistan.

Overlooking Hunza Valley, Karimabad.

A woman stands amidst apricot blossoms in Karimabad, Hunza.

Karimabad.

View from the Baltit Fort, Karimabad.

Hiking in Karimabad.

Hiking in Karimabad.

Karakoram Highway in Pasu.

However, when we went further north and crossed the Attabad Lake, we found it much more difficult to find a ride. With a disconnected road and a dearth of cars, there is almost no traffic north of the lake. Somehow, we made it to Pasu, and decided to visit Shimshal Valley.

We were so excited that we decided to hitchhike the 'jeep road' that leads from the KKH towards Shimshal, not knowing that we would not find a single car on the way.

In the end, we had to walk for two straight days! It was an unexpected hike without any food. In the cold evening, we had to make fire with wood that we collected on the way and slept in our tent during a freezing night before we reached Shimshal Village.

Walking along the KKH near Attabad Lake.

Life in Shimshal is tough, and not just because it is a long way to any other sign of civilisation around. The soil is dry, the nights are freezing – it requires a lot of hard work to survive in this area.

Life in Shimshal consists of living in its purest sense. It consists of collecting water from the river, chopping wood for heating, cultivating the fields, working with the farm animals. Nothing done here is for a minor reason, for anything other than survival.

But the people of Shimshal also enjoy something unique: almost everybody is a mountaineer. They say the best climbers belong to this small village of 2000 inhabitants.

We visited the nearby Yazghail Glacier, where we had to climb up for the most beautiful view. After two days, we found transport to go back to the KKH, where we started hitchhiking towards the north again.

Yazghail Glacier, Shimshal Valley.

We arrived in Sost soon enough, but to reach the Chinese border at the Khunjerab Pass – the highest international border crossing in the world – we had to wait for three more days. There just did not happen to be a car traveling that way.

Hour by hour, day by day, we kept standing there, holding a big chart saying 'Khunjerab', to no avail. Only friendly policemen inviting us for chai kept our hopes alive. By the third day, we were about to give up when some other tourists and their local guide invited us to join them. At the border, at an altitude of almost 5000 metres, we met some Chinese people who were hitchhiking, just like us.

Together, we celebrated Pak-China friendship and rolled back to Islamabad and then further to Lahore.

Getting close to India

The bustling city close to the Indian border was our last destination in Pakistan. We were only freshly out of the cold from the Northern Areas when suddenly, we had to put up with 35° Celsius and more. We still enjoyed walking around the old city, with its narrow and crowded lanes, the enormous Shahi Qila and the beautiful Badshahi Mosque.

A street in the Old City of Lahore.

Queue at Badshahi Mosque, Lahore.

The back entrance of the Delhi Gate in Lahore.

Badshahi Mosque, Lahore.

But the best part about Lahore were its friendly and hospitable people. Smiling faces all around us; people invited us for chai and food, and asked us for pictures, the whole time we were there.

We are glad to say that all over Pakistan, we met the most heartwarming people and never once had an untoward incident.

As we leave the country, we will remember the joys we had here and let the outside world know of the Pakistan we had so much fun in.

Thanks a lot, people of Pakistan. You are the best.

— Photos by author

The views expressed by this writer and commenters below do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Dawn Media Group.

Comments (253) Closed

Excellent work, rather an eye opener for may of my comrades who never visit Pakistani beauty rather just comment negativity.
Good work Morten and Thanks to Dawn for publishing such.

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Urooj SaifiApr 28, 2015 03:21pm

Visit us again - best wishes for your further adventures.

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TakeApr 28, 2015 03:21pm

Woow welcome to heaven on earth.Pak land safe secure pak-land

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AzizApr 28, 2015 03:22pm

Thank you Rochssare Neromand-Soma and Morten Hübbe for visiting our country Pakistan.

We are sorry that you had to undergo some inconveniences. We promise that next time you visit us we will try to make it even more enjoyable.

On behalf of my countrymen and countrywomen a big thank you for coming to Pakistan. Please return soon. Hopefully with a larger family.

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AliApr 28, 2015 03:27pm

Thanks to you for coming to Pakistan and presenting our real and beautiful face to the world. Happy Journey!!!

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imranApr 28, 2015 03:27pm

A great journey of brave couple, indeed its very informative and awesome, we hope peace will come to our lovely country and the people from around the world enjoy its beauty and hospitality.

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JunaidApr 28, 2015 03:28pm

LAhore, Lahore aey,....! Tell the world that we pakistanis have brave heart and we are so pleasant to others....1

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Old RavianApr 28, 2015 03:30pm

Thanks, you are welcome and do visit us again. I will continue to follow your blogs as you move along

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rehanApr 28, 2015 03:30pm

You are more than welcome to visit Pakistan any time you want . And it is very disappointing to see the lack of response from Pakistanis here. I can understand why Indians have nothing to say but as Pakistanis , we should warmly acknowledge these sentiments from a visitor !

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badriApr 28, 2015 03:32pm

Nice photographs. Looking at the photographs, I feel as if I am back in Delhi - especially the Markets and bazaar streets.

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IrfanApr 28, 2015 03:34pm

This article is not only true image of Pakistan but also keep our hopes high. Evil forces of inside and outside do not spare any moment to disgrace our country. We all hope for better and new Pakistan where all tourist will roam freely any where they like. No doubt people of Pakistan are more cultured in all developing countries.

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Hindutavi RakshasApr 28, 2015 03:37pm

Thanks for visiting us and showing the good part of Pakistan to your countrymen rest of the world, and good luck to your future journeys dear Rochssare Neromand Soma and Morten Hübbe. Love to have you again from Karachi to Hunza journey.

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MohsinApr 28, 2015 03:38pm

Nice travelling blog. Travellers and tourists are always welcome in this friendly country.

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ParvezApr 28, 2015 03:43pm

That was a truthful snap-shot of the country ........ hope you guys have fun on your travels.

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SandhuApr 28, 2015 03:43pm

This is my motherland Pakistan where you find so much cultural diversity that no other country have from sea level(zero meter) to K2 Mountain (8611 meter).

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Awais AliApr 28, 2015 03:46pm

They said at the end "Thanks a lot, people of Pakistan. You are the best" This make me feel proud. Lahore again won their hearts for sure.

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Awais AliApr 28, 2015 03:51pm

Northern areas of Pakistan,s calmness, Rawalpindi/Islamabad,s discipline and planning, And Lahore,s friendly atmosphere of people. No match of them in whole world.

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shahid HussainApr 28, 2015 03:52pm

Good article and nice pictures.

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Mansoor Apr 28, 2015 03:54pm

Lets swear to make Pakistan safe and one the best country to visit for travel adventures!! INVESTORS if you are reading this time to make some hotels!!!

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AhmedApr 28, 2015 04:09pm

extremely glad to hear these folks were able to enjoy the goodness Pakistan has to offer...there's plenty more where that came from!! Cheers

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M.MalikApr 28, 2015 04:16pm

I find it amazing that these foreign explorers are able to visit such far-flung beautiful corners of this country, that even most Pakistanis are not aware of, or at least, dare not tread! Very brave and audacious couple.

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RaviApr 28, 2015 04:27pm

Dawn! plz continue this series by publishing their pics from Indian travel blog as well. Thanks in advance.

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Vikram MalikApr 28, 2015 04:29pm

Such beautiful pictures! I'd so LOVE to visit!! My grandfather migrated to India from Rawalpindi in 1947 and I would especially like to visit that city and if possible, much more! Much love from Delhi to all Pakistani readers here...

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Zaman KunbherApr 28, 2015 04:30pm

Whenever I see that kind of pictures, my inner soul become very excited, and implore me to go over there.. but my mind smiles at my inner soul and say "Adjourn it... wait until circumstance are not in you favour.. Keep calm! and just see the pictures, see the beauty of nature mere by pictures" :)

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Waqar OmarApr 28, 2015 04:31pm

Thank you very much for the blog Morten. Really an eye opener for the world seeing our bad image in international media. Beautiful pictures.

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MaqsoodApr 28, 2015 04:33pm

Excellent, we appreciate this and we should give them full proof security to these tourists.

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BEWARE: KING TROLL TROLLS THE EARTHApr 28, 2015 04:38pm

I'd like to visit some of these places in the future, hope it is just as safe for Indians too. But with our 2 nations, you never know when things may turn south.

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Apr 28, 2015 04:44pm

long live pakistan

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Agha Asad RazaApr 28, 2015 04:46pm

Good article!

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Abu tamimApr 28, 2015 04:50pm

Thank you for unbiased travelogue

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NajeebApr 28, 2015 04:52pm

we can make our country more beautiful by preaching peace and tolerance. long live pak

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N.SApr 28, 2015 04:52pm

A corn vendor and a few camels plus some old dilapidated buildings in Karachi. This is hardly the true image of Karachi, it is a bustling, burgeoning city of 23 million people, with huge shopping malls, big office complexes, high rise buildings and apartments, posh residential areas, modern hospitals, universities, colleges, and schools and many other attractions, but that all was avoided to give a negative perception of Karachi and Pakistan in general. They can easily get away saying they find it unique so these pictures.
I see the same pattern and same stories and pictures in all of western civilized people blogs about Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or any Asian country. To portray it in worst possible way with some sprinkling of, bare minimum good vibes.
They will make it look as a concentration camp if they have to portray China or any Asian country.

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Pakistan FirstApr 28, 2015 04:57pm

How beautiful is World?

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SyedApr 28, 2015 04:58pm

You are one lucky couple you only have visit Pakistan, we are one unlucky population we have to live here. Anyway it is good to see leave alive.

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Patriot PakistaniApr 28, 2015 05:04pm

That's the most charismatic article, keep it up

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KashifApr 28, 2015 05:05pm

Wow, what an article to read about my country. You are most welcome guys. I hope you come again with many to see my beautiful country.

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Ghulam ali Apr 28, 2015 05:20pm

@Vikram Malik welcome to Pakistan !

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AzizApr 28, 2015 05:22pm

@Vikram Malik

You are most welcome to visit our country as our guest. If you know where your grandfather lived then you can visit the old Mohalla too. Maybe you might still find some old folks who knew your grandfather.

You will find Pakistanis very warm hearted and generous.

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Amir AliApr 28, 2015 05:24pm

Nice photographs.

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MattApr 28, 2015 05:24pm

Wonderful article. I have been living in Pakistan for a number of years and have experienced incredible hospitality, warmth, endless kindness, and generosity from Pakistani people. There are so many wonderful things here. Long may it continue, and God bless Pakistan.

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InternApr 28, 2015 05:37pm

Not safe for tourists.

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Gaurav AryaApr 28, 2015 05:41pm

Lahore has a Delhi Gate? Funny. Delhi has a Lahori Gate.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 28, 2015 05:51pm

Lovely pix and really heartwarming praise for the people of Pakistan by the writers. We in India would love to visit at least some of these places - the cities - Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi ... But for us : so near and yet so far ! May be one day things will change. Hope that is in my lifetime..:-)

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BhattiApr 28, 2015 05:52pm

Positive side of Pakistan! We must have to appreciate both of them.

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Khurram JadoonApr 28, 2015 06:02pm

@Gaurav Arya It does make sense to have alternate names at departures toward two great cities :).

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Sugatha SagarApr 28, 2015 06:05pm

Wow...Looks like Delhi, Ladak everywhere. Had the seeds of enmity not sowed among us by the Crown after 1857 war of Independence then we would have remained as one & millions such visits would have been possible from India across the border. More such blogs required to see the True culture, warmth of people to erase the enigma built over generations.

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MHamzaApr 28, 2015 06:05pm

Thanks for visiting Pakistan. The world always say that Pakistan is not a peaceful country but i think its all what the media shows. Few incidents gave the world Pak's bad image but it doesn't mean that whole Pak is unstable. We r living here with no regrets, no 2nd thoughts then what will b the issue to any visitor?? Pakistan is diverse country totally. U can see a woman in jeans here and in Burka both as Women decide here what they like to wear no one is forced except some areas close to Afghan border. Huge Shopping malls, international food chains, restaurants, luxurious car shows, fashion shows, Glittering weddings, Five star hotels, Eid festivals and lot more is today the part of Pak culture. As its an Islamic country and people do criticize the public skin show off (mainly for women) but still here its all up to the women what she wants to wear and what to not....!!! Pak is not an unstable country, its just a thinking of our mind which didn't let us to explore ourselves.

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gaApr 28, 2015 06:12pm

@Gaurav Arya - Lahore has a gate facing Delhi and Delhi has a gate facing its sister city of the time.

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Apr 28, 2015 06:13pm

@Vikram Malik
Likewise Vikram - My family migrated from Patyala. Lets plan to visit our family hometowns, we may get to meet half way :) Cheers!

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BApr 28, 2015 06:19pm

@N.S I think you're misunderstanding. There's nothing special about shopping malls and developed urban areas to Europeans. It is the character of the city that they wished to capture, and it is only certain people like yourself who see this as a slight.
You think that westernisation is a touchstone of beauty, it isn't. It isn't anything special. The culture, architecture and people of Pakistan is what is important.

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OmarFLApr 28, 2015 06:37pm

Everybody's busy praising Pakistan. I think no praise is enough for these 2 wonderful people who are doing a service to this country. God bless you both, Rochssare Neromand-Soma and Morten Hübbe. You are TRUE friends of Pakistan.

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MahmoodApr 28, 2015 06:38pm

A big thank you!!! I am proud of my people. Besides all odds in life, they are always willing to help others....

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Mihir20111994Apr 28, 2015 07:17pm

Pakistan is simply awesome.
I so want to bagpack there in Hunza-Gilgit-Skardu stretch. ^_^
If India-Pak relations turn warmer, we can have so many trekking trails between mountainous border between the two countries

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AnnonnApr 28, 2015 07:24pm

At one time Pakistan was called the Switzerland of Asia till Zia's coup.

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MuhammadApr 28, 2015 07:25pm

Thanks for taking me along! I am sitting thousands of miles away from my home country but felt I was traveling with you. Very nice article.

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ShakeelApr 28, 2015 07:27pm

Please tell this to as many as possible when back in civilisation....tell em that there are civilised people beyond civilization

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OatsApr 28, 2015 07:36pm

@Gaurav Arya There is also a Kabuli Gate. Do you not remember that all the lands of South Asia were once part of the Mughal Empire?
I think that Pakistan needs to work on improving tourism because there is great potential. My friends from Germany recently visited Lahore and they couldn't stop singing its praises. The pictures by the German man and his Iranian companion were beautiful. I have noted that many visitors from Iran like Ms. Niromand-Soma find similarities and differences. I would have liked to her more about her observations in this regard.

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waqar kayaniApr 28, 2015 07:48pm

nice pictures

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DabanggApr 28, 2015 07:57pm

Pakistan is more beautiful than I imagined. Nice photos.

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MonalApr 28, 2015 08:23pm

Its always interesting to see how western travelers always represent the ugliest picture with garbage heap and poverty. There is beauty too, great fields of mustard, broken but clean roads with trees, beautiful deserts and clear skies. I wonder if they do it on purpose or is this all they see because of the image that is already developed in their minds.

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AjayApr 28, 2015 08:43pm

I wish i can visit Pakistan one day....may be my mother will never allow me but i want to go there once in my life, My Granny Migrated from Karachi to Gujarat in 48, she always used to tell me about her stories in Karachi, We have some old ghee and Gud container type Barnis and some of her old Jewelries at our home...She is no more but I have always seen the charm in her eyes when she used to talk about Karachi to us when we were kids... while writing this I wish I can just apply for visa...i don't know why we hate each other

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FiApr 28, 2015 09:02pm

' and never once had an untoward incident.'

That liner says it all. Thank you and you are always welcome in my country, dear friend. Stay blessed.

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OKApr 28, 2015 09:10pm

@B Very well said!

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 28, 2015 09:13pm

The impressions of the authors are like fragrance on a mosaic of mountainous beauty and simple, old world culture.Just this evening I was with my nephew who worked in Air India and has been all over the world. He said that 'Pakistani people are really very nice'. I think if peace is restored to Pakistan the image of the country to the world will completely change. May that happen soon!

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HussainApr 28, 2015 09:14pm

Great ! Hitchhiking to Shimshal, when you didn’t get paid ride on the most dangerous road on earth .

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Jalaluddin S. HussainApr 28, 2015 09:23pm

As a Canadian of Pakistani origin I thank you for a positive and pleasant report of your Pakistani side of the trip.

It is very encouraging for other adventurers hoping to travel to Pakistan in the near future.

Thanks once again!

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Ramna Q VenkatApr 28, 2015 09:28pm

Wow amazing picture and great trilogy. I want to visit Pakistan again this I would like to go to straight to Northern Areas.

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StargazerApr 28, 2015 09:40pm

Dear Rokhssare and Morten, thanks a lot for your courage and time you spent in our country. Indeed Pakistan should be one of the most attractive travel destination, but all the negative publicity in international media has kept tourists away from Pakistan. Hope your message will convince others to explore this amazing land

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putinApr 28, 2015 09:44pm

right now u people are desperate to get approval from anywhere because internally u feel u are deficient.u have the vedic india which will always be beautiful.

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ManuApr 28, 2015 10:06pm

Lovely pics .. Pakistan is beautiful.. would love to visit Lahore in my lifetime.. It looks like another Delhi to me..

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daadaApr 28, 2015 10:33pm

Thank you Soma and Morten, God Bless you and may you enjoy many trips like that to Pakistan!

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Afzal MirApr 28, 2015 10:41pm

It was heart warming to read that the young couple enjoyed their trip through my country.

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abdul raphayApr 28, 2015 10:47pm

tell the people we r not as bad as they think about us

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Dr.Cajetan CoelhoApr 28, 2015 10:48pm

Great blog. Nice pictures. Thanks.

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Afzal MirApr 28, 2015 10:52pm

@Vikram Malik I am a 75 yr old retired in Lahori/Pakistani . If and when you visit Pakistan, I will be happy to show you my great city.

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atifApr 28, 2015 11:13pm

hope u enjoyed seeing and staying in pakistan

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NatarajanApr 28, 2015 11:14pm

Beautiful pics

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Zeeshan Akbar QureshiApr 28, 2015 11:16pm

Thank you to visit pakistan, i am sure that , the love you feel here you will never ever find in the world.We are poor but have a rich heart for all.we welcome all the world to visit.

@Ajay People to people there is no hate it's the 'politicians', if didn't do that they'd be out of jobs!

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SiddhuApr 28, 2015 11:59pm

All credit goes to Pakistani people who left a great impression on the minds of the visitors/tourists . Why we don't find many of our Indian friends to comment here is simply because not many Indians know much about Pakistan besides what negative has been churned out by the media . Only people can change this perception of the country and its people . Great journey . Keep it up Dawn .

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Muhammad QasimApr 29, 2015 12:06am

super Work done by the author .....and thanks for keeping the grace of my country elevated and highlighting few glimpse of joy and reverence ...

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HakimApr 29, 2015 12:46am

My dream is to travel through Gilgit and Skardu some day

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FaizanApr 29, 2015 12:48am

very nice

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TamilApr 29, 2015 01:23am

@Syed why you say like this. We in India have also so many problems, because of so many different nationalities, problems are bigger. From what I see of pakistan, you are much lucky, but don't tealise it. I hope lady is safe in India. My advice go in group and be back in hotel by 5pm.

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Sach_Ka_SathApr 29, 2015 01:46am

Thanks Dawn to show us a true colours of Pakistan

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saleemApr 29, 2015 02:39am

Invitation to all tourists Indians and all other nationalities . Please come and visit Pakistan. You will receive love , respect and hospitality just the same as these two visitors of our enjoyed .

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nj01Apr 29, 2015 02:44am

We all Indians know that Pakistanis are famous in Mehmannawaji..same blood

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HimanshuApr 29, 2015 02:56am

Great article. The quality of news are much better than times of India or ndtv. So I visit dawn more than the Indian sites. You are doing a good job. Keep it up.

Himanshu
An Indian from California

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AhmedApr 29, 2015 03:07am

Excellent effort and it take courage to survive and continue your hitchhiking! Pakistan is the most ill reported country by international media.

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rana nasirApr 29, 2015 03:10am

@Ajay Ajay my man do not think too much just get the visa and come on.

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Khalid BalochApr 29, 2015 03:44am

Thank you for visiting my beautiful country. Spread the word.

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BNSApr 29, 2015 04:05am

Good that you enjoyed. Do come back again. You will enjoy more. Best of luck for your continuing travel.

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RRApr 29, 2015 04:29am

@N.S Many westerners find nothing unique in modern office buildings. So they would rather have pics of corn vendors. Plus they have also posted some pics of natural beauty in the hills.

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BabuApr 29, 2015 06:22am

@N.S "A corn vendor and a few camels plus some old dilapidated buildings in Karachi. This is hardly the true image of Karachi, it is a bustling, burgeoning city of 23 million people, with huge shopping malls.......................but that all was avoided to give a negative perception of Karachi and Pakistan in general............. I see the same pattern and same stories and pictures in all of western civilized people blogs about Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or any Asian country................. They will make it look as a concentration camp if they have to portray China or any Asian country."

It is negative only if you think of it as so. Try to understand that they did not visit Pakistan to see more malls, posh areas, etc. The corn vendor and the camels are what make it so exotic and charming for western visitors. You should be proud of the droolworthy 'bhutta' vendors and camels, before they get obliterated in the march of modernization.

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Ayesha GulApr 29, 2015 06:39am

thanks for visiting my country pakistan. i am happy you really enjoyed your stay in pakistan and you find my country beautiful.

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zainApr 29, 2015 06:41am

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience.

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ThoughtpurificationApr 29, 2015 06:50am

Hitchhiker are special people . Pakistan treats European with respect None the less its a nice report

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SureshApr 29, 2015 07:51am

Oh my God... Pakistan is beautiful... Can you imagine that what impact it make to Pakistan economy with foreign tourism. Honestly, I like to visit Pakistan, as ultimately we are the same people, may be one day I will visit. Its so beautiful, government should take a positive step to develop tourism, it will definitely boost Pakistan economy. I want to see Prosperous Pakistan, not competitor with India as enemy nation but competitor in education and science.

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PatrickApr 29, 2015 08:13am

Wow thanks for this article amazing photos

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sri1Apr 29, 2015 08:25am

@rehan "I can understand why Indians have nothing to say"
Many Indians are aware of this side of Pakistan too - of the big-hearted, welcoming people and beautiful landscape.
The natural beauty sounds a lot similar to our Hrishikesh, Missourie, Darjeeling, Nainitaal, our side of Kashmir etc. and probably those hitchhikers will write on those aspects of India too. Hopefully, in the future there will not be so much antagonism that stops our peoples from enjoying each others' tourist spots.

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tariq siddiquiApr 29, 2015 08:37am

@N.S They come to see what is unique and different. They have plenty of concrete and glass structures at home.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 29, 2015 08:48am

@Himanshu 'Great article. The quality of news are much better than times of India or ndtv'.

This is very correct. DAWN is exciting, pictures are stunning and there is a personal feel about the experience. The stories are engrossing and some are exceptionally well-written.:-)

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Zahid HussainApr 29, 2015 08:51am

Waooooo!! Soma and Morten!! Your definition of Pakistan is indeed a huge compliment for us and also an encouragement. Thank you for your visit and also for making time to write about it in an awesome way.
Looking forward to hear about your more visits because you have missed few places especially Skardu which somes after Gilgit in the extreme North. Visit us in Skardu and be my guest here mates!!
All the best with what you have planned for your life.. You guys are inspirations for adventure lovers..
Thanks Dawn, keep sharing such good stuff.
Regards!!

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muhammad ilyas khanApr 29, 2015 09:09am

Thank you for your nice and memorable visit to our country. However, i really apologize to you being annoyed in Karachi and Rawalpindi due to attitude of people. I am sure you will describe Pakistan a different country with full of blessings, natural beauty, moutaineous region on the map of the world. best of luck to u people and wish u prayers for your next destination.

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TouseefApr 29, 2015 09:10am

@Ajay we don't hate you brother. I have had Indians as friends all my life. come to Pakistan we have enough warmth and love to sleep under the stars and enjoy our stay on this earth. It's your decision if you want to spend it hating people or sharing a hot cup of tea with us.

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Basharat Ali Apr 29, 2015 09:18am

Fabulous Travel and Article!!!!!!!!!!
I am Basharat Ali living in the middle of Karakorum Mountains. Hushe valley is the last valley in Baltistan region. It was worth to visit to Baltistan. The culture, landscape, Rivers, Mountains and Glaciers has unique beauty. Hushe valley is the gateway to Baltoro glecier where K-2, G-I, G-II, G-III, Broad Peak and many other peaks are erected. The people of Baltistan also has unique atitude for tourists.
If you want to visit Baltistan during your next visit. Please write here s.machuluvi@gmail.com I will host both of you in Baltistan. Also if you are fond of climbing or mountaineering on enormous mountains of Baltistan.

Basharat Ali

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ranaApr 29, 2015 09:24am

Its lovely to seee u guys here u are more then welcome again in pakistan .

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AbdulApr 29, 2015 09:36am

Hope you had good insurance policies.

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basitApr 29, 2015 09:52am

Thank you guys for nice comments about my beautiful country. I also love travelling and have been to many countries. Pakistan is a beautiful country and has everything that a tourist loves to see . Please come and see for yourself. I am sure you wouldn't regret. God bless Pakistan.

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aftabApr 29, 2015 10:04am

@Vikram Malik Thanks dear for showing warm wishes

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abidApr 29, 2015 10:06am

Oh God,,, These chaps has touched heart of every corner of Pakistan... beautifull, ugly and all sorts of..... Very good exeperience for them I believe...

Thank you guys for visiting Pakistan. You guys are not from Pakistan but u have seen more of it than me and i am glad about that. I am not in Pakistan at the moment and missing it a lot bit by reading this amazing article and by seeing beautiful pictures of it i felt happy and sad at the same time as I am missing Pakistan alot. We welcome u guys again. Thank you for this amazing article.

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Basharat Ali Apr 29, 2015 10:15am

Excellent travel and article. It was a worth to visit Baltistan as well. Baltistan is the home of massive mountains, glaciers, rivers, valleys and landscapes. Here K-2, G-I, G-II, G-III, Broad Peak and many other peaks are erected having worth views sights. One can feel the sense of heaven by losing himself/herself in the beauty of nature.
I would invite to you to visit Baltistan and if you want to climb or to do mountaineering write me at s.machuluvi@gmail.com

Best regards
Basharat Ali

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JohnApr 29, 2015 10:26am

@Gaurav Arya Not that funny really. Lahore snd Delhi were capitals of the Mughal Sultanates. What is funny is that you do not know the connection.

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rajaApr 29, 2015 10:41am

Thank you for highlighting the 'Good' things about Pakistan. We need these in abundance.

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jagmohanApr 29, 2015 10:43am

This blog is an eye opener for the tourists and travelers,who skip visiting Pakistan for terrorism related news.
No doubt Pakistan has abundant beauty of nature along with hospitable culture.There is vast tourism potential,
however return of peace and tranqulity is precondition for its materialsation.Improvement of relations may bring in
large number of tourists round the year from India too.

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SunilApr 29, 2015 10:48am

@rehan
Thanks Morten for sharing your experience and photos of Pakistan. It reminded me fondly of my own travels (Karachi, Lahore, Pindi, Chitral, Gilgit, Hunza,...) and I too was totally amazed by the beauty of the mountains and the warmth of the people. I have traveled around the world but my vacation in Pakistan is the one I cherish the most - felt at home, actually more than home! Hope more folks will be bold as you two to hitch hike, or consider an organized visit with a local friend or hire a guide which is what I did.

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maheshApr 29, 2015 10:56am

nice pics!! So far I have not come across a hygienic roadside sugarcane juice stall in India, good to see one in Pakistan

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SaifApr 29, 2015 11:06am

@N.S
These guests of ours are from Germany, and they know what schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, mega-shopping malls etc. look like!
What they found in Karachi was average people living mundane lives, and they loved it. They found Karachi to be unique and full of possibilities. Hence their memories. There is no conspiracy here.

PS. Rochssare and Morten, thank you for your kind words. All of Pakistan hopes for a long, fulfilling, healthy and content life for the both of you!

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AdityaApr 29, 2015 11:14am

Lovely.
Its saddening that we in India can't visit these places easily inspite of being so close.Very beautiful and finally a neutral point of view from western travelers,good job.Hope someday relations between India and Pakistan are like that of EU and we can travel across easily.God bless!

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SATApr 29, 2015 11:30am

@Vikram Malik Great to know your love for Rawalpindi. I was born there in 1931 and migrated in 1947. I visited RPindi last year as a member of a delegation.

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NoFameApr 29, 2015 11:47am

Always great to know of someones adventure plus very appealing getting to know new places and people. we always hear its not good to talk to the strangers but for me its the very opposite ;) Cant wait to visit "Skardu" but due to bad routs cant make it happen but im not hopeless and IA one day i will :)
Happy for you guys that you had a good time - Cheers

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jaswinder KaurApr 29, 2015 11:55am

Stunning pictures and good information about north areas. Keep it up Dawn!

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HaseebApr 29, 2015 12:02pm

Really,feel very happy when any foreigner appreciate our county because we got fad up to listening negativity.May God Give our county lot of prosperity

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DeanApr 29, 2015 12:05pm

It was really Awesome to see Pakistan like this , so vibrant and beautiful. I as an Indian staying in Dubai, always knew Pakistanis are mirror image of us Indians , and connect very well especially when faced with Arabs or other communities. Would love to see the real Pakistan one day.

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Ramesh NakhwaApr 29, 2015 12:09pm

Breathtaking views of Karimabad, Gilgit and Sost. Wow, Wow and Wow. Such a beautiful country. In India we check the nets and decide our holidays as a family. If I show this article to my family they would insist on a holiday In Pakistan. What a beautiful country and so similar to India from the Corn / Bhutta seller in Karachi to the Sugarcane vendor.

Simply amazing, I wish I could travel there and view it for myself. Dear Pakistanis please please please do not spoil it. You could earn billions in tourism, only if the security situation improves

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POSTAL SAVINGApr 29, 2015 12:09pm

wonderful..

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Nadir ShahApr 29, 2015 12:14pm

You just missed the matchless Deo Sai Plains...

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anilApr 29, 2015 12:14pm

My daughter asked me only this morning "Which country you always wanted to visit and did not so far?". I said "Pakistan". Very good work. I am a US citizen (Indian by Birth). Always want to visit Pakistan. Not sure when?

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kartikey mishraApr 29, 2015 12:23pm

nice pics .

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Rana QasimApr 29, 2015 12:23pm

@Gaurav Arya . There is a Delhi gate in Multan as well.

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Vijay KadamApr 29, 2015 12:30pm

Very Beautiful who will not like to visit this place ? Thanks for DAWN , last time also Dawn had given beautiful photos from Gilgit.
Thanks a lot DAWN.

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AlApr 29, 2015 12:32pm

Thank you so much for this article. It is fantastic to know that there are open-minded and well educated as well as sophisticated people who travel to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to experience the true atmosphere and image of this beautiful nation founded by the noble and pious father known as Quaid-E-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah.

I hope more people, who have a wrong perception about the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, read your beautiful, informative and articulate article and share it with their friends and family because I have already on Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp!

The world needs more people like you!

God Bless!

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TaimoorApr 29, 2015 12:33pm

You wouldn't find white sand beaches, Deserts and over 8,000 meters high mountains any where else in the world. My country is the World's Best Kept Secret.

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GauharApr 29, 2015 12:35pm

Magic awaits you in India.... Prepare to enter into a different world

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AryadeepApr 29, 2015 12:38pm

What a beautiful article, and even stunning pictures. Loved them. Did you visit India as well? could you please give me the link to the article?

That was really nice hearing something positive about Pakistan.. Best of luck for your journey and May GOD bless you

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Saeed KhanApr 29, 2015 01:03pm

You visited all over Pakistan but you both missed to visit Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the old living city of Central Asia (the Story telling City Peshawar) and the surrounding areas.

Thanks
Regards,
Saeed Khan

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Muhammad IdreesApr 29, 2015 01:05pm

Thanks man for showing this side of Pakistan. Great work

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JDApr 29, 2015 01:12pm

@N.S Dirt, camels, street vendors and those dilapidated building is the true image of Pakistan. Building a few beautiful roads, buildings, posh residential areas will not change this reality. Neither tourists are interested in it. There are way more beautiful modern buildings, roads and posh areas in other countries. When visitors come here, they are interested in exploring the culture, heritage, natural beauty and people of Pakistan. Unfortunately our government and us the people are hell-bent on destroying all these things.

I am glad that these folks had a wonderful and safe journey in Pakistan and I hope they´ll inspire others to come.

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Nabeel Ur Rehman Apr 29, 2015 01:13pm

Thank you very much for presenting a lovely picture of Pakistan !

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adnanApr 29, 2015 01:23pm

Rochssare Neromand-Soma and Morten Hübbe thanku so very much for visiting Pakistan and sharing your experience.. you are more than welcome to visit us again and you will find more greetings... best of luck with your further journey...

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adnanApr 29, 2015 01:34pm

@Sanjoy Sankar Guha thank you for your best wishes..

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kazim baltistaniApr 29, 2015 02:03pm

Dear,

you only visit half beauty of north pakistan , baltistan is also very beautiful place with lot of antique places,

please must visit these places hope you enjoy more then previous places ,

pakistan north is very peace place ,hope you convey good message to other tourist,

dill dill pakistan jaan jaan pakistan

kazim baltistani

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kazim baltistaniApr 29, 2015 02:06pm

@Aditya

we are also very excited to visit goa india , only seen in pictures ,

i heared that pakistani are not allowed in GOA is this real news

kazim baltistani

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anilApr 29, 2015 02:10pm

@Touseef beautiful message. One day, I will visit Pakistan...- Anil

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BILALApr 29, 2015 02:16pm

Wonderful!!!

The next time you are in Pakistan, do visit Faisalabad for some chai.

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Asim Apr 29, 2015 02:21pm

Wow, You cover almost the whole Pakistan but my beautiful city is missing. "Peshawar", the Land of Tigers and Hospitality and history of bravery.. which is completely different from the rest of Pakistan according to Culture, nature and tradition wise. but wish you have a safe journey.
And the Good thing is you show that Pakistan is Safe place for toursit. thanks for that being Pakistani.

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Harmony-1Apr 29, 2015 02:22pm

@Sanjoy Sankar Guha - Good thoughts...thank you! Despite unsavoury comments we get here from many trolls (both sides), the fact is we are very friendly and hospitable people. During resumption of cricketing ties back in those days, many Indians when they came over, were pleasantly surprised too and remembered free taxi rides given and offers of free food etc. Not only we make visitors 'Happy' but such gestures make us 'Happy' too. Like us, no doubt majority Indians are good too and I don’t like to say this but when our cricketing fan went over to India the hospitality was somewhat wanting.

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SameerApr 29, 2015 02:22pm

Excellent would love to visit historical and northern area of Pakistan.

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apiApr 29, 2015 02:29pm

Pakistan is definitely a place to visit. So much to see and do. It was awesome that you both went and saw for yourself how the country and its people are. There was a time when a lot of tourists used to come from all over the world and enjoy this mesmerizing place. hope to see many more in the future. Thanks dawn for publishing the article and thanks to Rochssare and morten for visiting Pakistan and writing this amazing article.

As the saying goes"you understand people when you live with them".Hats off to you both! Hope you cross over this area again in a near future.

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Kari AliApr 29, 2015 03:58pm

Wow Thanks a lot for showing the true face of Pakistan. Your are the ambassador of Pakistan.
Lovely stay blessed.

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HarisApr 29, 2015 03:59pm

Thanks for presenting nearly true picture of Pakistan.

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HarisApr 29, 2015 04:00pm

Thanks for presenting nearly true picture of Pakistan.

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Hasan Apr 29, 2015 04:03pm

@Gaurav Arya Lahore and Delhi have many building and common names as both cities were constructed by Mughal emporers so the building structures are common.Old Delhi and Old Lahore will have many similarities.

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NASAApr 29, 2015 04:10pm

@Touseef Your beautiful comment just made my day. Thank you, Touseef!

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NomiApr 29, 2015 04:14pm

@BEWARE: KING TROLL TROLLS THE EARTH
for Indians its even more safe. trust me... we love you guys..

ask those Indians who have already visited ... :-)

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ibneshafiqApr 29, 2015 04:15pm

Thanks for your unbiased and true words about real Pakistan. hopping it is an eye opening for those, always try to portrait Pakistan, a horrible place.
All the best

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PinditesApr 29, 2015 04:29pm

@Vikram Malik And you would love it (Rawalpindi). Combination of old and new. These tourists visit only old places but when u will visit new Pindi. You would be amazed to see your ancestral city.

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ASIFApr 29, 2015 04:45pm

Visit us again folks.

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HammadkhalidApr 29, 2015 05:00pm

you both look so beautiful.. thank for visited our country.. and i hope you will come again and again... it's not a terrorist land. media made it negative mind about pakistan... God bless you

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CacoApr 29, 2015 05:06pm

@N.S You are right about the pictures, but not about the motivation. The reason these pictures are shown is NOT to give a bad image of South Asia, it is because Western people come to this area of the world to see something DIFFERENT. If you are going to spend your time in a shopping mall or "office complexes", then why leave New York or London?

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NazApr 29, 2015 06:14pm

Truly inspiring commentary and snaps!

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deepakApr 29, 2015 06:27pm

Pakistan is not complete without visiting Swat valley, Switzerland is nothing if you compare.

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DestinyApr 29, 2015 07:00pm

@BEWARE: KING TROLL TROLLS THE EARTH

it is easy for you to visit.. your language and your looks are the same... and there are many hindus that live here so don't worry... you are welcome...

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RasheedaApr 29, 2015 08:55pm

Oh no.. please don't joke.

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NajeebApr 29, 2015 09:00pm

@Ajay we The people can change it, love

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Shahid Akbar, USAApr 29, 2015 09:14pm

What a beautiful country Pakistan is. What happened to Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation? Does it still exist? Thank you Rochssare and Morten for taking your time for a write up and nice pictures.

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MOIN ASHRAF KAMALApr 29, 2015 09:36pm

I drove down from Karachi to West Germany via Kabul, Iran, Turkey, Rumania and Yugosalvia , Austria then to Munich West Germany. It was drive of my life time but in 1972 things very peaceful.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 29, 2015 10:38pm

@adnan Thank you for your thanks. I sincerely want peace for Pakistan not only in the interests of peace in the subcontinent and world peace, but also for the people of Pakistan - how long will such a hospitable, large hearted and loving people continue to suffer bravely and silently ? I am very sure that lots and lots of Indians will join me as I say this. God is Great !

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 29, 2015 11:30pm

@Harmony-1 Thank you very much, and I hope you have seen my response to your query (!). Yes I had read about the extraordinary hospitality meted out to the Indian fans who had gone to Pakistan to see the cricket series. Actually I had read about it at that time, and frankly it was almost unbelievable ! Recently I have read a reference to an Indian Home Ministry spokesman (referring to this incident) wherein he said that after their return home all (10,000 I believe) of them had become ambassadors of Pakistan, such was the goodwill created in their hearts by the Pakistani hospitality ! As far as the reciprocity of it goes, my friend if Indians have not or do not reciprocate in the same measure, that is not because they love you less, but because (according to me) their capacity for generosity is less than yours. You need not feel slighted on that account. On the contrary you carry the knowledge that at least in this respect the Indians have something to learn from you ! God is Great, he has not made all people the same. My best wishes to you and the Pakistani people !

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Saqib javedApr 30, 2015 12:06am

Thanks for posturing a positive picture

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FarazApr 30, 2015 02:44am

I hope Rochssare Neromand-Soma and Morten Hübbe take positive memories from Pakistanis when they reach India.

A few years ago I went to Fairy Meadows, where I came across another German couple (Both PhDs) who had taken a year's leave to travel the ancient silk route! We were sitting in a small canteen listening to their amazing experiences while having tea and the couple couldn't resist but give us their take on the difference between Indians and the Pakistanis!!! They said " Look, we are sitting together having tea here in this random place and will pay the same amount for this tea that you will be paying, but it's not like this in India, every where we go, no matter how remote the place is, they always charge us foreigners 5 to 10 times more. When we are in travelling in Pakistan, we feel at home"

I hope the Govt. can capitalize on this trait of Pakistani nation to promote tourism!

Fantastic to see photos and read your blog. Amazing places and people.... seen thru your eyes. Thank you for posting!

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DorothyApr 30, 2015 04:00am

Fantastic to see and read your blog through Pakistan. Amazing places and people, thank you!

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Mujtaba ChaudhryApr 30, 2015 04:04am

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

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John coolApr 30, 2015 06:23am

@ That is very nice.Hope all Indians and Pakistanis invite each other and our future generation will live in peace.Fantastic view of Pakistan.Hope the security situation will improve and you have lots of visitors from outside as well as within to these paradise on Earth.
Good luck.

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BishwasApr 30, 2015 07:38am

My childhood dream or lets say my early teenage dream was to hitchhike from my hometown of Kathmandu to Kabul via Delhi-Amritsar Lahore. This was back in the early-mid 2000s when we heard and saw about Pakistan everyday all in good light mostly through the cricket matches in Pakistan.
I have always been fascinated with the Punjabi culture and have wanted to visit the whole Punjab region a large part of which falls in Pakistan side.

I can speak Urdu relatively okay although can't read and write but that is the least of my concern and I would love to try out my Urdu skills and travel whole of Pakistan before going to Afghanistan. It is still my dream to go there and Insallah I will go there very soon.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 30, 2015 10:09am

@Harmony-1 Thank you, my friend. Yes I remember the cricket series and how Indian fans who went to Pakistan were offered free accommodation, food and not charged by taxis. I remember that at that time I was quite amazed. More recently I read about an Indian Home Ministry official referring to this who also said how the 10,000 odd fans had become ambassadors FOR Pakistan by the time they returned because of the extreme hospitality they had experienced. As far as the reciprocity of Indians goes, it is not that Indians love you less, but it is that your generosity is far greater than theirs.( These are of course generalisations). Therefore you should not feel slighted on that account. On the contrary you can carry the knowledge that Indians have (among other things) at least this thing to learn from the Pakistanis. Your strength is your pride, another person may not possess your strength. The stronger person has to give, because the weaker while he may want to is unable. Contd....

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaApr 30, 2015 10:20am

@Harmony Contd... Just imagine the tourism potential of Pakistan if there is peace and security everywhere ! It'll be overrun by visitors, and I can wager that there'll be enough and more from India alone. So my best wishes are with you and the people of Pakistan - let peace, happiness and prosperity prevail ! BTW I hope you got the reply to your query in an earlier post.

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Muhammad hammadApr 30, 2015 10:42am

Remarkable effort....

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HassanApr 30, 2015 11:17am

Thanks for visiting us in pakistan folks!!
And loved reading your blog.

Hope you come back and visit us again soon.

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Sanjay DeswalApr 30, 2015 11:42am

@Taimoor

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Sanjay DeswalApr 30, 2015 11:42am

jaisa desh hai tera, vaisa hi desh hai mera

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ABLApr 30, 2015 12:15pm

'Dawn' need to promote such articles which presents our beautiful country, specially in pictures. Other areas to cover are Thar Desert (amongst the top ten hot deserts), four of the top ten tallest mountains in the world are in Pakistan. (we dont even know their names), we have the best natural river system flowing thru the entire country, and more than 1000 km of coastline, which remains unexplored. And there are many others.

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Murad Akbar Apr 30, 2015 12:23pm

Why not Chitral dears, you would have wonderful time here

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SANJEEV KUMAR YADAVApr 30, 2015 01:05pm

My grandparents had to leave the beautiful land to safe their life, but they always remembered the beautiful land.

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ALAMSHAHApr 30, 2015 01:07pm

A great journey of brave couple .Thanks to you for coming to Pakistan and presenting our real and beautiful face to the world. Hope your message will convince others to explore this amazing land. Thanks once again!

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karanApr 30, 2015 01:58pm

Unsurprisingly, just like India- the best of Pakistan is in its valleys, mountains and rivers that have been untouched by its inhabitants. Islamabad; notwithstanding, of course. Good luck to them on the final leg of their journey.

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TakeApr 30, 2015 02:36pm

Bikes in pics look like 60s and 70s junk. Under-powered 70 cc pollution bombs.Rest of the pics are amazing

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Harmony-1Apr 30, 2015 02:54pm

@Sanjoy Sankar Guha - Thank you and likewise good wishes to you too. On reciprocity of hospitality that was a little addendum for comparison but not to disparage your people and hence followed by “I don’t like to say this”, so that not to make a fact sound like a boast. I despise hubris. Yes, I got your other message too...thanks!

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sazApr 30, 2015 03:52pm

Thank

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sazApr 30, 2015 03:58pm

Thank you for your travel and such a nice blog. It is hard to learn about Karachi if you do not have a guide. I wonder how do you communicate in different towns and cities across the world where there is no common language between you and people residing there. I found it hard when I visited Turkey. Majority does not understand English and I did not understand Turkish. It was hard to talk in such situation.

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umerApr 30, 2015 04:51pm

welcome again

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umerApr 30, 2015 04:51pm

Welcome Again to Pakistan

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Rahi milla Apr 30, 2015 05:16pm

Thanks for visiting Pakistan. Now that you are going to india, stay safe and don't go out in a taxi at night. Especially stay away from public buses in Dehli. Take care.

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ZeeshanApr 30, 2015 05:42pm

You guys are awesome. Thanks for visiting us.

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AzelApr 30, 2015 06:03pm

Pakistan is a beauty which can only be lived!
For understanding and appreciating the heavenly beauty both in land and people, tourists need to avoid all the negative propaganda and visit Pakistan to see, at least once in their lives, the current of life flowing in the veins of this nation.
Its great that you too came and got an opportunity to "live this beauty" and now u can better analyze the situation based on first hand experience. Your account of this visit can inspire others tourists who may be interested to see "heaven on earth".
Peace comes with love, not boycott.

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US CENTCOMApr 30, 2015 07:56pm

Sometimes you have to see these pictures to refresh your memory in regards to how much there is to see in Pakistan.

Ali Khan
Digital Engagement Team, USCENTCOM

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MalikApr 30, 2015 08:32pm

I met Steve Swenson few years ago here in Seattle USA who used to travel each year to K2 for 25 years. Since the last 4-5 years he has stopped going because of I guess security reasons. My hat off to you Rochssare Neromand-Soma and Morten Hübbe. I am glad you enjoyed your hiking thru Pakistan and visiting Northern Areas, "Heaven on earth". Bon Voyage!

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mikeApr 30, 2015 09:13pm

@Take Thats a bold statement.

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mikeApr 30, 2015 09:14pm

@Sandhu Did you study geography in the school ?

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Hemanth BajajApr 30, 2015 10:33pm

Indeed your country is beautiful. I hope one day i get to visit your country. Although i do wish there was more about your local cuisine. But again indeed beautiful.
Love from India

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TufailApr 30, 2015 11:12pm

A true and frank reflection of Pakistan- the most ill understood country in the world.

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Valmiki P RaghunathanMay 01, 2015 12:48am

Nice blog - made good reading. Some day, I will be able to visit this beautiful country. Many Indian friends who have visited Pakistan gush about the friendliness of their Pakistani hosts and how beautiful the country is.

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P.R.KoduriMay 01, 2015 05:10am

Loved every bit of it. Reporting at its Best as well. Wish I could visit Lahore and Humza sometime.

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TeraisaMay 01, 2015 06:34am

Excellent article and pictures. Blessings to you both!

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PakistaniMay 01, 2015 09:17am

Long live Pakistan & brave Pakistanis. Our land is very pure & loving but outsiders trying to defame it. Thanks to these visitors. Ive been to 80+ cities in 30+ Countries but Pakistan northern areas & valleys remain at best. Pak best days will be back. Love you Pakistan

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m.a.g.shaikhMay 01, 2015 09:33am

first thanks to dawn for providing such travelling articles.
thanks to the visitors,who praised our country and people...one can not say that our country is not safe.
its true we got heaven on earth.

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Omar ZiaMay 01, 2015 10:53am

Sometimes an outsider has to come and let us know what a beautiful country we have with equally warm citizens. Probably occasionally we need to step back and "smell the flowers"

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Muhammad Raza AizadMay 01, 2015 03:55pm

Good Luck!

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Hamidwali May 01, 2015 04:08pm

Hello Sir, How are you? I hope you are fine there. We meet in gilgit in net cafe i hope you remember . i just saw the link of your page. its great work. you have done nice work on my country . I hope you enjoyed your days in pakistan ,
from
Hamid wali

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manthariaMay 01, 2015 04:45pm

danke schoen i wish i have spelt it correctly

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Dr Riffat JabeenMay 01, 2015 06:39pm

No doubt Pakistan has really versatile and breathtaking landscape and Pakistanis are marvelously hospitable.

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DaraMay 01, 2015 07:40pm

:)

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Ahmad KhanMay 01, 2015 07:51pm

the news channel should focus on positive things about Pakistan rather then negative things all the time. It give hope to people of PAkistan to make their life better then rather then worst. We need positive media attention so people would visit Pakistan and experience how people are in Pakistan. Overall it was nice to read their experience ..

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Ahmad KhanMay 01, 2015 07:53pm

@Irfan
well said..

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Sharif AhmadMay 01, 2015 09:58pm

Wow. Brave. Really Brave. Really, Really Brave.

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OKMay 01, 2015 10:05pm

@Sanjoy Sankar Guha Thank you for your warm and beautiful words! It is truly heart touching in these days when our country is so unfairly malignet in the international media. Who else than a good neighbour would know us better. Welcome back!
Love from Lahore!

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PrasadMay 02, 2015 12:34am

Really beautiful photographs!! And great to see confirmation of Pakistani hospitality (except government/security types)... Gilgit area seems really cool...

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rizyMay 02, 2015 12:44am

i wish i was back in pak and travelling :(

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BEWARE: KING TROLL TROLLS THE EARTHMay 02, 2015 01:12am

@Nomi @DESTINY

Thanks for the vote of confidence guys, will definitely search these beautiful places and consider a visit. I hear Pakistani hospitality is wonderful.

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ZAKMay 02, 2015 07:13am

and now they are blown away

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ZAKMay 02, 2015 07:15am

and then they were no more

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Kundan SharmaMay 02, 2015 08:12am

The more I read about Pakistan the more I want to visit this country. I have heard about the hospitality given to Indians by our dear brothers. Kabhi to aaunga zarur. Dawn please publish the Indian part of the story.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaMay 02, 2015 08:34am

@OK Thank you my friend !

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaMay 02, 2015 08:36am

@OK Thank you my friend ! And love to you too from India!

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Arvind AjimalMay 02, 2015 02:24pm

In India the travel and tourism scene has exploded. Indians are going places and spending big on holidays...all types.
I met a group that went to trek mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. I too love to go to mountains, visited beautiful places like Kalpa and Chitkul in himachal on an ancient road to Tibet.
Pakistan has all these beautiful places, why don't they set things right and develop some safe infrastructure. I would love visit all the places these two Germans visited in northern Pakistan. And I know makemytrip would love to sell packages for Gilgit treks.

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mallappallyMay 02, 2015 05:00pm

poverty,poverty ,everywhere poverty.

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TalatMay 02, 2015 06:36pm

@John i think you are missing the point when Gaurav says "funny". its like saying its odd. odd or funny that he did not know about the connection in that way. Yes we know they are both moghul era but even i did not know about the gates on both ends just like many Pakistanis, Indians and Kashmiris.

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KrishnamoorthyMay 02, 2015 07:37pm

Visit south india tourist places like ooty, kodaikanal, Moonar, madurai temples these are must visitable places

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Ahmad Fraz/Shazia KhanMay 02, 2015 10:01pm

Thank u for visiting and giving the world information about our beloved country. It is pleasure to know that u had good experince in this most misunderstood country called Pakistan. Hope to see u again.

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shamrezMay 03, 2015 07:08pm

@B beautiful response!

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Dr. Farhat H. SiddiqiMay 03, 2015 11:15pm

I am a Pakistani who grew up in Karachi. I left Pakistan in 1967 and now live in California. I have made enough trips to Pakistan to see the beauty of the northern areas of Pakistan. I have seen Swat, Neelum Valley, Hunza, Gilgit. You name it and I have been there. One trip to the northern areas of Pakistan was with my dear American friend, Dr. Richard Fragaszy from Virginia. We both remember standing in front of Rakaposhi and wondering. Can any mountain peak in the world be more beautiful than Rakaposhi? Northern Pakistan is so beautiful that every trip I make seems to be just not enough. The people in those areas made my journey to those areas even more memorable. Regardless of all the negative portrayal of Pakistan I love my motherland.

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ShubhamMay 04, 2015 07:38am

A beautiful country (paradise on planet Earth) in wrong hands.

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Brutally HonestMay 04, 2015 09:45am

The Guy looks pathan, good he survived..the journey

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akmalMay 04, 2015 12:33pm

By all means u are a brave couple. U visited us at time when many afraid to do so. We are immensely happy on ur visit. Hoping u would visit us again soon. Best of luck for future journey.
DAWN: Well-done, we love u for doing a terrific job by bringing their story to us.

I have been living in Germany for couple of years, believe me, Pakistan is most beautiful place on the earth and I have never seen so attractive and beautiful compound of different components (see, mountains,deserts,different rich cultures) in any part of the world.

Long live Pakistan.

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Sanjoy Sankar GuhaMay 04, 2015 02:05pm

@Shubham If you do not mind me saying so - sad to see this kind of comment. Pakistan is evolving - give it a chance.You may be surprised at what emerges. Has India always been in the right hands ?

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hamidahfawad@gmail.comMay 04, 2015 03:14pm

@Bishwas You are most welcome to visit. We would love to host you. And you should visit Karachi as well because Karachi is the heart of Pakistan. Feel free to reach out whenever you decide to come over.

Also our condolences to you on the recent earthequake that has struck your country. We hope you and your family are safe.

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R. AlbuquerqueMay 04, 2015 03:21pm

Excellent story and great pictures. Shows the human and the peaceful side of Pakistan for a change. If only Indians know more about Pakistan and vice versa, I am sure there will be better understanding, goodwill and peace.